Focalin (Dexmethylphenidate) is a stimulant. Researchers don't know exactly how it works for ADHD, but it increases norepinephrine and dopamine activity in the brain, which affects attention and behavior.

Strattera (Atomoxetine) is a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (non-stimulant). Researchers don't know exactly how it works for ADHD, but it increases norepinephrine activity in the brain, which affects attention and behavior.

› There have been reports of men having an erection lasting more than 4 hours while on Focalin (Dexmethylphenidate). This has been rare. If not treated in time, this can cause permanent damage to your penis, including impotence. Talk to your doctor immediately or go to the emergency room if this happens.

› It can cause changes in sex drive.

› There have been reports of men having an erection lasting more than 4 hours while on Strattera (Atomoxetine). This has been rare. If not treated in time, this can cause permanent damage to your penis, including impotence. Talk to your doctor immediately or go to the emergency room if this happens.

Sleep

No specific sleep-related info.

No specific sleep-related info.

Weight

› Appetite suppression may occur. In clinical studies, long-term treatment with stimulants similar to Focalin (Dexmethylphenidate) caused a temporary slowing of growth rate (both height and weight) in children who started the medication between ages 7 and 10. Doctors should monitor children's growth during treatment.

› Appetite suppression may occur. In clinical studies, long-term treatment with stimulants similar to Strattera (Atomoxetine) caused a temporary slowing of growth rate (both height and weight) in children who started the medication before they started puberty. Doctors should monitor children's growth during treatment.

Upsides and benefits

Focalin

Strattera

› Focalin (Dexmethylphenidate) is used in combination with counseling or other non-drug therapies to treat ADHD.

› Available as a generic medication.

› Available in both an immediate-release form, which is given twice a day, and an extended-release form, which is given once a day.

› Capsules can be opened and sprinkled in water or applesauce for people who don't like swallowing pills.

› One of the few medications used to treat ADHD that's not a stimulant.

› It isn't a controlled substance.

› Strattera (Atomoxetine) is used in combination with counseling or other non-drug therapies to treat ADHD.

› You usually only need to take it once a day.

Downsides and risks

Focalin

Strattera

› Needs to be taken in the morning and early afternoon, or else it can cause insomnia later that night.

› It's a controlled medication and should be locked up to prevent potential abuse.

› It's a second-line medication used to treat ADHD. Other medications are usually tried first.

› It's only available as a brand name medication, so it can be expensive.

Tips from our pharmacists for people taking the medication

Focalin

Strattera

› Store Focalin (Dexmethylphenidate) in a locked area to prevent abuse.

› Take it early in the morning to prevent insomnia later that night.

› It can cause changes in your mood and vision.

› Don't take it with alcohol or drugs.

› The extended-release capsules can be opened and sprinkled on a small amount of applesauce.

› Common side effects include a decreased appetite, nausea, and insomnia.

› Can raise your blood pressure and pulse, so it's not safe for people with heart problems.

› It can cause changes in sex drive.

› It can also cause changes in your mood.

› Take it at the same time every day.

› Common side effects include decreased appetite, nausea, and constipation.

› The capsules can't be opened and need to be swallowed whole.

› Can raise your blood pressure and pulse, so it's not safe for people with heart problems.